VALENTINE Holmes has backed Latrell Mitchell to fill the void left by Greg Inglis’ suspension, in the Kangaroos’ clash with the Kiwis at Mt Smart Stadium.

AAPOctober 13, 20182:25pm

Latrell Mitchell will make his Test debut against the Kiwis.Source:AAP

WHO needs Greg Inglis when you have Latrell Mitchell? Mitchell’s Australian backline partner Valentine Holmes has paid the Sydney Roosters’ NRL sensation the ultimate compliment, comparing him to the Queensland skipper.

Inglis was set to captain the national side for the first time in Tests against New Zealand and Tonga, however was stood down after being charged with drink- driving.

Inglis’ absence compounds the experience drain being felt by Mal Meninga’s side after the representative retirements of Johnathan Thurston, Billy Slater, Cooper Cronk and Cameron Smith.

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But Holmes said Mitchell shared the same superstar qualities as Inglis, having achieved almost everything in the game this year with a Roosters premiership, a NSW Origin win and his Test debut.

“He’s upbeat and I love that about him,” Holmes said.

“He’s very confident. That’s why he’s been the best centre in the game, I think.

“I’m very happy for him to make his debut at such a young age. I’m sure he’ll do well. Playing outside him, I feel like I’m playing outside Inglis again.”

Mitchell and Holmes will form a formidable left-side combination which oozes size, class, speed and power.